Operating mechanism for opening and closing an electrical switch

ABSTRACT

An operating mechanism for opening and closing a heavy duty electrical switch is provided. The mechanism includes a switchclosing spring means, a switch-opening spring means, a manually actuated first means for charging both spring means when said switch is in an open condition, and a manually actuated second means operative, only when both of said spring means are charged, to effect discharge of the switch-closing spring means and closing of the switch. The switch-opening spring means can be either manually or automatically discharged so as to open the switch. Automatic discharge of the switch-opening spring means occurs only when a predetermined condition exists in the electrical system.

United States Patent [1 1 Dykes et al.

{451 Apr. 8, 1975 OPERATING MECHANISM FOR OPENING AND CLOSING AN ELECTRICAL SWITCH [75] Inventors: Donald L. Dykes, Mid dletown,

Ohio; Harris I. Stanback, Lexington, Ky.

[73] Assignee: Square D. Company, Park Ridge. Ill.

[22] Filed: Feb. 28, 1974 [21] Appl. No.: 446,861

3,582,595 6/l97l Stein ZOO/I53 FOREIGN PATENTS OR APPLICATIONS l,948,209 ll/l970 Germany ZOO/I53 Primary E.\'aminerT. E. Lynch Assistant Examiner-John W. Redman Attorney, Agent, or FirmHarold J. Rathbun; Ernest S. Kettelson [57] ABSTRACT An operating mechanism for opening and closing a heavy duty electrical switchis provided. The mechanism includes a switch-closing spring means, a switchopening spring means, a manually actuated first means for charging both spring means when said switch is in an open condition and a manually actuated second means operative, only when both of said spring means are charged, to effect discharge of the switch-closing spring means and closing of the switch. The switchopening spring means can be either manually or automatically discharged so as to open the switch. Automatic discharge of the switch-opening spring means occurs only when a predetermined condition exists in the electrical system.

10 Claims, 19 Drawing Figures PATENTEDAPR 8 I975 SHE! 1 0f 8 FIG.I

PATENTEDAPR arms FIG. l2

FIG.II

OPERATING MECI-IANISM FOR OPENING AND CLOSING AN ELECTRICAL swIT I BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION It is important for reasons of safety that an electrical system having high current-carrying capabilities be provided with a heavy duty switch which operates on a close-open cycle only. Furthermore, in such a system the complemental current-carrying components of the switch must make full contact in such a. way that various safety code requirements are fufilled.

To assure proper operation of switches of this general type, various operating mechanisms have heretofore been provided; however, because of certain design characteristics the prior mechanisms have been beset by one or more of the following shortcomings: (a) the mechanism was difficult and awkward to manually manipulate so as to charge the spring means embodied within the mechanism; (b) the mechanism was highly susceptible to malfunction; (c) the mechanism could be manipulated to effect closing of the switch without the switch-opening spring means being charged; (d) it could not readily be ascertained whether the switch was in either an open or closed Condition by merely observing the exterior of the housing in which the switch and operating mechanism were accommodated; (e) the mechanism was not capable of manual and automatic operation to effect opening of the switch; (f) the mechanism was bulky and difficult to install and service; and (g) the mechanism could not be utilized with switches varying in size and shape over a wide range.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Thus. it is an object of this invention to provide an improved operating mechanism of the type described whichis not beset with any of the aforenoted shortcomings.

It is a further object of the invention to provide an improved operating mechanism of the type described which embodies security features, thereby permitting manipulation of the mechanism only by authorized personnel.

It is a still further object of the invention to provide an improved operating mechanism of the type described incorporating numerous safety features which. if circumvented. will render the mechanism inoperative in closing the switch.

Further and additional objects will appear from the description. accompanying drawings, and appended claims.

In accordance with one embodiment of the invention, an operating mechanism is provided for use with a heavy duty electrical switch having a movable current-carrying component. The mechanism operates in a close-open cycle and includes a switch-closing spring means, a switch-opening spring means, and a manually actuated means for charging the spring means independently of one another. A control device is provided for discharging the switch-closing spring means and effecting movement of the switch current-carrying component to a closed position only if both spring means have been fully charged. The control device is also adapted to be either manually or electrically actuated to effect opening of theswitch.

DESCRIPTION For a more complete understanding of the invention reference should be made to the drawings wherein:

FIG. 1 is a fragmentary perspective front view showing one form of the operating mechanism in combination with a heavy duty switch disposed in an open position.

FIG. 2 is a fragmentary perspective view of the operating mechanism shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a fragmentary front elevational view partially in section of the mechanism of FIG. 2 showing both switch-closing and switch-opening spring means in discharged conditions.

FIG. 4 is a fragmentary rear elevational view of the mechanism of FIG. 3 and showing the control device in an inoperative position.

FIG. 5 is a fragmentary enlarged sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view of the manually actuated means for charging both spring means.

FIG. 7 is an enlarged fragmentary. sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6 and showing both spring means in discharged conditions. the switchclosing spring means being shown in phantom lines.

FIG. 8 is like FIG. 7 but showing the switch-opening spring means in a charged condition and the switchclosing spring means in a discharged condition.

FIG. 9 is like FIG. 8 but showing both spring means in charged conditions.

FIG. 10 is like FIG. 9 but showing the switch-closing spring means in a state of becoming dicharged.

FIG. 11 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view showing the control device disposed on the front face of the mechanism having been manually actuated to a first position wherein the switch-closing spring means moves from its charged position (FIG. 9) to its discharged position (FIG. 8).

FIG. 12 is similar to FIG. 11 but showing the control device having been manually actuated to a second position wherein the switch-opening spring means moves from its charged position (FIG. 8) to its discharged position (FIG. 7). I

FIG. 13 is an enlarged fragmentary view of the various components comprising the control device for discharging the spring means, said components normally being concealed from view.

FIG. 14 is an enlarged fragmentary perspective view of the clutch pin and cam surface, shown in FIG. 6; said pin and surface being disposed in engaged relation, thereby permitting the switch-closing spring means to remain in a charged condition while the crank handle, utilized to manually charge the spring means, returns to its upright neutral position, as seen in FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of the latch pin utilized to retain the switch-closing spring means in a charged condition.

FIG. 16 is a fragmentary perspective view of one form of a lock assembly shown in position for securing the crank handle in an inoperative position.

FIG. 17 is similar to FIG. 16 but showing the lock assembly in a released or unlocked position whereby the crank handle can be manipulated so as to charge both spring means.

FIG. 18 is a fragmentary perspective view of a modified form of lock assembly.

FIG. 19 is a fragmentary rear view of the crank lever, seen in FIGS. 4 and 6, and showing in phantom lines the lever in a changed position which occurs when the switch-opening spring means moves from charged to discharged conditions.

Referring now to the drawings and more particularly to FIG. 1, a heavy duty switch 20 is shown in combination with a preferred embodiment of the improved operating mechanism 21. The switch 20 may be of a type rated 480 volt AC, 800 through 4000 amps and suitable for use with ground fault equipment. Basically. the switch 20, as illustrated in FIG. 1, includes a plurality of laterally spaced stationary blades 22, and pairs of contact blades 23 arranged in laterally spaced relation and movable as a unit into a closed or open position with respect to the stationary blades 22. The number of stationary blades and corresponding pairs of contact blades may vary from that shown and will depend upon the electrical system in which the switch is incorporated. When the pairs of blades 23 are moved into a closed position. each pair of blades 23 will clampingly engage the aligned stationary blade thereby making full contact between the complemental blades and closing the electrical circuit. The spacing between the blades 23 comprising a pair may be adjustable so as to assure proper contact between the engaging blade surfaces.

To effect unitary movement of the pairs of contact blades 23, the latter are carried on a crossbar 24 which is pivotally mounted so as to move through a predetermined sector between open and closed positions. A rod or link member 25 interconnects the crossbar 24 to the mechanism 21 whereby movement of certain componcnts of the mechanism will be transmitted to the crossbar in a manner to be hereinafter described. The components of the switch 20 per se and their function are described in detail in the application of T. J. Rys. Ser. No. 329.804, filed Feb. 5, 1973. and thus further description thereof is not deemed warranted.

The operating mechanism 21, as illustrated. includes a switch-closing spring means 26 and a switch-opening spring means 27 both of which are adapted to be independently moved to a charged condition by a common, manually actuated assembly 30. The spring means 26 and 27 and the assembly 30 are supported by a pair of spaced parallel plate members 31 and 32 which, in turn, are suitably secured to the mounting panel 33 of the switch 20. The mounting panel 33 supports the stationary blades 22 in proper spaced relation.

Assembly 30, as seen more clearly in FIG. comprises an elongated shaft 34 which is disposed transversely of plate members 31 and 32 and extends through suitable openings 31a and 32a formed therein. One end of the shaft projects forwardly from plate member 31 and has affixed thereto a suitable crank handle 35. The opposite end of shaft 34 projects rearwardly from plate member 32 and has affixed thereto an elongated operating lever 36. Mounted on shaft 34 and disposed intermediate plate members 31 and 32 are a pair of longitudinally spaced crank plates 37 and 38 and a pair of operator plates 40 and 41 arranged in side-by-side relation and disposed between the crank plates 37 and 38, see FIGS. 5 and 6.

Shaft 34 is of composite construction and includes an elongated rod 42 having an enlarged head formed at the forwardly projecting end thereof. The enlarged head includes a cylindrical section 42a, which is of greater diameter than the remainder of the rod; a

square or facetted section 42b disposed to one side of section 42a and accommodated within a matching opening 35a formed formed in crank handle 35; and a second square or facetted section 42c disposed on the opposite side of section 42a and accommodated within a matching opening 38a formed in crank plate 38, thereby causing plate 38 and crank handle 35 to pivot as a unit about the axis of rod 42. Eneompassing the cylindrical section 42a of the enlarged head of rod 42 are a flanged bushing 39 and a spacer 39'. The flanged bushing 39 is disposed within the opening 31a formed in plate member 31. The flange 39a formed on the bushing 39 engages the rear surface of the plate member 31, see FIG. 5.

Eneompassing the portion 42d of the rod projecting rearwardly from head section 420 is a sleeve 43 supported at opposite ends by needle bearings 44a and 44b which also encompass the rod. The sleeve is retained in a fixed longitudinal position on rod position 42d by a lock ring 45 which is disposed within an external groove 43a formed adjacent one end of sleeve 43, see FIG. 5. The ring 45 when in place engages the front face of operator plate 41. The opposite or rear end 43b of sleeve 43 has a generally square configuration with rounded corners 43c which are extensions of the cylindrical periphery of the sleeve central portion 43d. Fixedly mounted on the sleeve central portion is an arcuate-shaped lug 43e, the function of which will be described more fully hereinafter. The generally squareshaped rear end 43b of sleeve 43 is accommodated within a matching opening 36a formed in operating lever 36. A bushing 46 engages the rear part of the central portion 43d of sleeve 43 and is disposed within the opening 32a formed in the rear supporting plate member 32.

Arranged between the lock ring 45 and the bushing 46 and encompassing the cylindrical central portion 43d of sleeve 43 are the operator plates 40 and 41 and the crank plate 37. Each of the plates is provided with a matching opening 400, 410 or 37a which permits the sleeve to rotate independently of the plates or vice versa as will be discussed more fully hereinafter.

As seen in FIGS. 5 and 6, crank plates 37 and 38 are of similar construction except for the configuration of the openings 37a and 38a formed therein and through which the shaft 34 extends. Thus, because of the round configuration of opening 37a, rear plate 37 functions as an idler plate, whereas the front plate 38 with its square-shaped opening 38a functions as the drive plate when the spring means 26 and 27 are being manually.

charged in a manner to be more fully described hereinafter.

Each plate 37 or 38 has a curved, laterally extending portion 37b or 38b. An opening 37c or 38c is formed in the outer extremity of portion 37b or 38b and is adapted to receive an end of an elongated crank pin 47. The pin interconnects the outer extremities of the crank plates and has an axis which is substantially parallel to the axis of shaft 34.

At substantially its mid-point, crank pin 47 is engaged by one end 48a of a coil spring 48, see FIG. 3, which exerts a bias on the crank plates and the crank handle 35 causing same to assume a neutral or upright position N, see FIGS. 1-4, when the crank handle has been released. The upper end 48b of the biasing spring is connected to an offset end 50a of an upright fixed bracket 50 carried by plate member 32.

Operator plate 40 is pivotally connected to the switch-closing spring means 26 by a connecting pin 51 which is accomodated in an opening 40b formed in a laterally extendingportion 40c of the plate 40. The pin 51 is also disposed within suitable openings formed in the bifurcated end 52a of a telescoping rod section 52. The lower end 5212 of the rod is slidably disposed within the upper end 53a of a lower rod section 53, see FIG. 3. The lower end 53b of the rod section is pivotally connected at 54 to the plate members 31 and 32. Encompassing the rod sections 52 and 53 is a pair of concentric coil springs 55a and 5517 which are disposed between the upper end 52a of rod section 52 and the lower end 531) of rod section 53. When the concentric springs are in a fully charged (compressed) condition and the rod sections are in a retracted relation. see FIG. 9, there is sufficient stored energy to cause the crossbar 24, carrying the blades 23, to rapidly move into a closed relation with the stationary blades 22 when the springs'55a and b are released or discharged in a manner to be hereinafter described.

As seen in FIG. 6, operator plate 40 is provided with a peripheral notch 40d which is disposed substantially diametrically opposite opening 40b. An additional opening 40e is disposed in substantial radial alignment with notch 40d. The distal end 40f of the laterally extending portion 40c of plate 40 defines a shoulder which isadapted to be engaged by the crank pin 47 when the crank handle 35 and crank plates 37 and 38 pivot as a unit in one direction about the shaft 34 as an axis.

Opening 40c of plate 40 is adapted to slidably receive an end 56a of a clutch pin 56 which is secured to the rear surface of plate 40 by a spring piece 57. One end 57a of piece 57 is affixed by a fastener 58 or the like to the rear surface of the plate 40 and the opposite end 57b is affixed to the rear end of the clutch pin 56. The

spring piece 57 exerts a bias on the clutch pin 56 urging same to project through plate opening 40c. When the forward end 56a of the clutch pin projects through and forwardly from the plate opening 40e, the end 56a will be in position to be engaged by an end of the acrcuate lug 43e affixed to portion 43:! of the sleeve 43. Such a condition occurs when both the operator plates 40 and 41 assume a charged or cocked position C. see FIG. 9. Upon the switch-closing spring means 26 being released from its charged position, the clutch pin 56 will drive the sleeve 43 through lug 43e in a clockwise direction through an arc of approximately 90, see FIGS. 9 and 8, and at the same time cause lever 36 to move through the same are from a substantially horizontal position, FIGS. 4 and 9, to an upright position, FIG. 8. The effect of this movement by the lever 36 will be discussed more fully hereinafter.

Upon the plate 40 reaching its upright position while spring means 27 remains in a charged condition, see FIG. 8, the protruding end 56a of the clutch pin 56 will engage and move up the bevelled end 58a of an arcuate cam 58 which is affixed to the rear surface of operator plate 41, see FIGS. 6 and 14. The center of curvature of the cam 58 is coincident to the axis of rod 42. It should be noted, however, that the greatest radius defining the outer curved peripheral surface of lug 43e is less than the smallest radius defining the inner curved peripheral surface of cam 58. Thus, lug 43e and cam 58 are adapted to move in substantially concentrically disposed paths as seen in FIGS. 7-10. The height of cam 58 is such that when end 56a of pin 56 has moved up the bevelled end 58a and is engaging the flat surface 581) of the cam, the end 56a will be recessed from the rear surface of the operatorplate 41 to such an extent that the clutch pin end 56a will no longer be disposed within the path of the sleeve lug 43e upon subsequent movement of the sleeve 43 in a counterclockwise direction upon switch-opening spring means 27 being released from its charged position C (FIG. 8) to its discharged position D (FIG. 7).

Counterclockwise movement of the sleeve 43 is effected through an arcuate lug 60 formed on the rear surface of operator plate 41, see FIG. 6. The radii forming lugs 43e and 60 are substantially the same; thus, when spring means 26 is in a discharged position D and spring means 27 is in a charged position C. see FIG. 8, lugs 43c and 60 are disposed in abutting end-to-end relation. Counterclockwise movement of plate 41 is effected by releasing the stored energy of the compressed concentric springs 61a and 61b which encompass telescoping rod sections 62 and 63. The springs 61a and b and the telescoping rod sections 62 and 63 are similar in construction and function to that of springs 55a and b and rod sections 52 and 53 heretofore described with regard to the switch-closing spring means 26.

As in the case of rod section 52, rod section 62 has a bifurcated upper end 62a which is adapted to accommodate a portion 41c ofoperator plate 41. A connector pin 64 pivotally joins the bifurcated end 62a to the plate 41. A suitable opening 41b is provided in the plate portion 410 to receive the pin 64. The lower end of rod section 63 is pivotally connected at 65 to the supporting members 31 and 32.

To retain the switch-opening spring means 27 in a charged position C. once it has been moved into such position by the manual manipulation of the crank handle 35 in a counterclockwise direction as viewed in FIGS. 1 and 2, a latch pin 66 is provided which is adjustably mounted on the rear surface of the frontsupporting plate member 31, see FIG. 13. The latch pin 66 is mounted on a stationary bearing 59 carried on and extending rearwardly from plate member 31. The latchpin is rotatable about a transverse axis 67. The pin 66 is integrally joined to a substantially flat member 660 in which is formed a curved slot 661). The rearwardly extending distal end portion 660 of the pin 66 has a substantially crescent or semi-cylindrical crosssectional configuration, see FIGS. 7-10 and 13. When operator plate 41 is in its charged position C, see FIGS. 9 and 10, the pin end portion 660 will engage and be disposed within a peripheral notch 41d formed in the plate 41. The notch is disposed substantially diametrically opposite the opening 41b. Pin 66 is biased by a coil spring 66 in a clockwise direction about axis 67, as viewed in FIG. 13, so that the end portion 660 will automatically assume an interlocking position within the notch 41a when the latter is aligned therewith. The adjacent surfaces of the bearing 59 and pin are provided with complemental stops 59a and 66d which limit the extent to which the pin can rotate in a counterclockwise direction, see FIG. 13.

The end portion 66c may be released from its interlocking engagement with the plate notch 41d by either a manually actuated control lever unit 68 or by an electrically actuated solenoid assembly 70, see FIG. 13.

Unit 68 includes an exposed handle 71 which is connected to an elongated transversely extending rod 72.

The axis of rod 72 is substantially parallel to the pin axis 67. The rod is supported by members 31 and 32 for rotation about its longitudinal axis. Mounted on rod 72 and movable therewith as a unit about the rod is a lever 73 which is disposed adjacent the rear surface of member 31. Pivotally connected to lever 73 at a point offset laterally from the rod axis is one end 74a of an elongated connecting arm 74. The opposite end 74b of arm 74 is offset and slidably disposed within the curved slot 66b formed in the member 66a joined to latch pin 66. Thus, if handle 71 is turned downwardly in the direction indicated by the arrow I in FIG. 13, through an arc of approximately 90, such motion will be transmitted to the latch pin 66 through rod 72, lever 73, and arm 74 causing the latch pin end 660 to move in a counterclockwise direction, as viewed in FIG. 13, about axis 67 until the flat side 66c of the pin end 660 faces the open side of the notch whereby the plate periphery is clear of the latch pin. Once the latch pin end is clear of the periphery of the plate 41, the stored energy of the compressed springs 61a and b can be subsequently released in a manner to be hereinafter described, thereby driving the plate 41 in a counterclockwise direction, as

viewed in FIG. 13, so as to open the switch.

The same releasing clockwise motion can be imparted to the latch pin 66 by the solenoid 70, the latter being secured to member 31 by a suitable bracket 75. The core of the solenoid 70 has an extension 70a which is pivotally connected to a link piece 76 which, in turn, is pivotally connected at 77 to member 66a of the latch pin 66. The solenoid core is adapted to normally assume an up position by reason of the bias, previously mentioned, being exerted on the pin 66 by spring 66.

The actuating circuit for the solenoid 70 includes an interlock micro-switch 78, see FIGS. 13 and 19, which, in the illustrated embodiment, is mounted on the rear surface of supporting plate member 32. The switch 78 normally assumes a closed condition whereupon, if a predetermined circuit condition occurs, the solenoid 70 will be automatically energized causing the core extension 70a and link piece 76 to instantly move downwardly, see arrow ll, FIG. 13, thereby rotating the latch pin end 660 to a release position. The core extension will remain in a down position until the interlock micro-switch 78 breaks the circuit and deactivates the solenoid permitting the core extension 700 to return to its normal up position as seen in FIG. 13. The arcuate slot 66b in the latch pin member 66a permits the latch pin to be actuated by the solenoid 70 without affecting the control lever unit 68. It will be understood that the predetermined circuit condition can be the closing of a control circuit to the solenoid 70 by means of a push button P. see FIG. '13, or by means of an overload responsive device in a circuit in which the switch 78 is interposed.

The operator plate 40 is initially retained in its charged position C, see FIG. 9, by a second latch pin unit 80, see FIG. 15, mounted on a stationary bearing 81 affixed to the rear support member 32 for rotation about an axis 82 which is disposed transversely of the member 32 and parallel to the axis of shaft 34. Unit 80 includes an inner portion 80a having'a stop 80b formed on the end face thereof which is adapted to engage a complemental stop 81a formed on the bearing end face, thereby limiting the extent to which the pin 80 can rotate in a clockwise direction about axis 82, see FIG. 15. The pin 80 is biased in the clockwisedirection by a spring 83. Next to the inner portion a of the pin 80 is a central portion 800 which has a crescent or semi-cylindrical configuration. The central portion 80c will normally be disposed within the peripheral notch 40d of the plate 40, upon the plate being moved to its charged position, see FIG. 9, and before plate 40 is so moved by manipulation of the crank handle 35 first in a clockwise direction from its neutral position N, as seen in FIGS. 1 and 2. When the latch pin 80 is rotated in a counterclockwise direction so that the flat face 80d of the central portion 80c is aligned with the open side of the plate notch 40d, then the latch pin 80 is no longer capable of retaining the plate 40 in its charged state. Notwithstanding this deposition of the flat face 80d, the plate 40 will not move to its discharged position until certain other conditions occur in a manner to be hereinafter described.

As seen in FIG. 15, latch pin 80 is provided with an outer tongue-like portion 80e which is adapted to be engaged by the bifurcated end 62a of the telescoping rod section 62 comprising a part of the spring means 27, when the latter is charged by manipulation of the crank handle 35 in a counterclockwise direction. Upon the tongue-like portion 80e being engaged by the bifurcated end 52a, the latch pin 80 will be rotated in a counterclockwise direction about axis 82, thereby causing the portion 800 to become disengaged from plate notch 40a. Once this occurs, however, the plate 40 which is in its charged position will not move to its discharged position until the control lever unit 68 .is manually rotated upwardly, as seen in FIG. 11, which, in turn, rotates lever 87 so as to disengage stop pin 90 from notch 36b of lever 36.

As aforementioned, rod 72 which forms a component of unit 68 is supported by plate members 31 and 32. The inner end of rod 72 protrudes beyond member 32 and is connected to a lever 84, see FIG. 4. To the lower end of lever 84 is pivotally connected one end of an elongated arm 85, the latter having a longitudinally extending slot 85a formed adjacent the opposite end. Slidably disposed .within slot 85a is a pin 86 carried on the lower end 87a of a second lever 87 which is adapted to pivot about a stationary stud 88 which is affixed to and projects rearwardly from plate member 32. The upper end 87b of lever 87 is bifurcated and is provided with a transversely extending stop pin 90. The lever 87 is connected to one end of a biasing spring 89 at a location intermediate stationary stud 88 and stop pin 90..

The opposite end of the spring is affixed to member 32.

The spring 89 urges lever 87 in clockwise direction as.

seen in FIG. 4.

The bifurcated end 87b of lever 87 is adapted to accommodate a notched end 36a of the lever 36, when the latter assumes a substantial-1y horizontal position, as seen in FIG. 4. When the lever end 36a is accommodated by the bifurcated end 87b, the stop pin 90 will be disposed within the notch 36b and prevent the lever 36 from pivoting in a clockwise direction about the shaft 34 as an axis, see FIG. 4.

The length of the slot 85a formed in arm 85 is such that when the handle lever 71 is manually manipulated in a clockwise direction to an up position, see FIG. 11, such pivotal movement will be transmitted to lever 87 causing same to pivot a like amount in a counterclockwise direction, see FIG. 4, about stud 88 as an axis, thereby moving the stop pin 90 clear of the notched end 36a of lever 36. The slot 85a permits the handle lever 71 to be manually manipulated from a neutral position, see FIGS. 1 and 2, to a down position, see FIG. 12, without causing the lever 87 being effected. When the handle lever 71 is in its down position, the switchopening spring means 27 will be discharged. I

As seen in FIG. 4, the pivotal motion of the lever 36 is transmitted to the switch cross bar 24 through rod 25 which is connected at 360 to lever 36 adjacent its notched end 36a.

The opposite end of lever 36 is fore-shortened and provided with a shoulder 36d. The shoulder engages a leg 90a forming a portion of a dog-leg type of trip lever 90 which is secured to the rear end of an elongated rod 91. The rod is disposed transversely of the plate members 31 and 32 and is supported thereby for rotation about its longitudinal axis. The opposite end 90b of trip lever 90 is adapted to engage and close switch 78, when the lever 36 moves in a clockwise direction as seen in phantom lines in FIG. 19.

As a safety feature, the handle lever 71 of the control unit 68 cannot be manually manipulated from its neutral (horizontal) position to either an up or down position unless the upper end 92a of a safety lever 92 is pushed inwardly, when an inspection door 93 hingedly connected to a housing 94 assumes a closed position with respect to an access opening 940, see FIGS. 11 and 12.,The housing 94 is of conventional design and is adapted to enclose various components of the operating mechanism 21 and the switch 20. The door 93 and opening 94a provide a ready means of access to the interior of the housing to facilitate adjustment of the switch and/or the operating mechanism.

Safety lever 92 is adjustably connected to the front face of plate member 32 by means of a transversely extending stationary pin 92, see FIG. 2. The pin extends through an elongated slot, not shown, formed in lever 92. A coil spring 92" encompasses the pin 92 and is disposed between the lever 92 and the end of pin 92' and exerts a bias on the lever whereby the upper end 92a thereof seeks to project outwardly through the access opening formed in the housing 94 and is prevented from doing so when the door 93 is closed. The lower end 9212 of lever 92 is offset rearwardly and extends through an opening 326 formed in plate member 32. The length of the offset end 92b is such that it will extend through a suitable opening 84a, see FIG. 4, formed in lever 84, when the latter is disposed in its upright, neutral position. Thus, safety lever 92 prevents rotation of the control lever 71 when the offset end 92b is disposed with opening 84a.

A window 94b is formed in the front wall of the housing 94 through which can be observed indicia 95a and b indicating whether the switch 20 is in either a closed or open position. The open" indicia 95a is disposed on a flag piece 96 which is secured to the front end of rod 91 and rotates therewith. Thus, flag piece 96, rod 91 and trip lever 90 will rotate as a unit about the longitudinal axis of rod 91. When trip lever 90 is in the positon shown in phantom lines in FIG. 19, the flag piece 96 is disposed in an offset position relative to the window 94b, as seen in FIG. 11. The closed indicia 95a is fixedly mounted on the front surface of plate member 31 and can be observed through the window only when the flag piece assumes the position shown in dotted lines in FIG. 11.

FIGS. 16 and 17 disclose one form of a device 97 which is adapted to secure the operator plates and 41 in an inoperative condition, as seen in FIG. 16. Device 97 includes an elongated bar 98 which is mounted for endwise adjustment within suitable aligned openings 31b and 32b formed in plate members 31 and 32, respectively. see FIGS. 13 and 4. The configuration of bar 98 is such that segments of the upper portion thereof will fit within the peripheral notches 40d and 41d of the operator plates 40 and 41, see FIG. 16, and thus prevent either plate from rotating about the axis of shaft 34. The upper portion of bar 98 is provided with a pair of longitudinally spaced open end slots 100 and 101.

The spacing between the slots corresponds to the spacing between the plates 40 and 41. The depth of each slot is such that, when the slots are aligned with the plates, as seen in FIG. 17, the bar will not obstruct the movement of the plates either during charging or discharging thereof.

The underside of bar 98 is provided with an elongated longitudinally extending open end slot 102 which is disposed adjacent to and substantially parallel with the lower edge of the bar. Accommodated within slot 102 is a coil spring 103 which exerts a bias on the bar urging same to assume an extended position wherein the slots 100 and 101 are aligned with the operator plates 40 and 41, respectively. The exposed end 98a of the bar is provided with an opening 104 which is sized to accommodate the bail 105a ofa padlock, or the like. 105, see FIG. 16.

Affixed to plate member 31 and protruding forwardly therefrom is a channel-shaped element 106 which is adapted to partially embrace the protruding end 98a of the bar 98. The upwardly protruding sides 106a of the element 106 are provided with aligned openings 10617 which are similar in configuration to the opening 104 formed in the bar 98. When the bar 98 is in a retracted position, as shown in FIG. 16, the openings 104 and l06b will be in registration with one another so as to accommodate the bail of the padlock 105.

FIG. 18 illustrates a modified form of lock 107 used to retain bar 98 in a retracted position. Lock 107 is affixed to the lower edge portion of the plate member 31 and embodies a bolt, not shown, which is adapted to assume either an extended or retracted position. The position of the bolt is determined by a key 108 which is adapted to be inserted into a tumbler 1070. When the bolt is disposed in an extended position and bar 98 is in its retracted position, see FIG. 16, the bolt will fit within an open-ended slot 110 formed along the lower edge of the bar 98, see FIGS. 16 and 17. The bar can assume its retracted position only when the operator plates 40 and 41 are in their discharged positions. Various other types of devices from those herein described and illustrated may be utilized for locking the operator plates in discharged positions.

In order to operate mechanism 21 to effect closing of switch 20, it is necessary that the certain procedural steps be followed, namely: (a) the padlock 105 must be removed or the key 108 must be inserted into the tumbler 107a and the bolt retracted so as to free the bar 98 and allow the slots 100 and 101 to align themselves with the operator plates 40 and 41; (b) the access door 93 must be closed so as to disengage the safety lever 92 from the lever 84; (c) the crank handle 35 is manually rotated in either a clockwise direction, as viewed in FIG. 1, through an arc of approximately 90 until the peripheral notch 40d of plate 40 is engaged by the latch pin 80, thereby charging spring means 26, or in a counterclockwise direction, as viewed in FIG. 1, through an arc of approximately 90 until the peripheral notch 41d is engaged by the latch pin 66, thereby charging spring means 27, see FIG. 8; ((1) depending upon which direction the crank handle 35 was rotated under (c) hereof to charge a spring means, the handle is then rotated in the opposite direction from the neutral upright position through an arc of approximately 90 so as to charge the other spring means, thereby resulting in both spring means being sequentially charged, see FIG. 9; and (e) the control handle 71 is then manually rotated in a clockwise direction, see FIG. 13, through an arc of approximately 9() whereupon the operator plate 40 is released from its charged position and instantly moves to its discharged position under the combined force of the springs 55a and b and this in turn moves the lever 36, and the movement of the latter is transmitted to the switch crossbar 24 through connecting rod 25.

While the switch has been closed by the mechanism in accordance with the procedural steps aboveoutlined, the switch-opening spring means 27 remains in a charged state. The discharge of the spring means 27 to effect opening of the switch is accomplished by either manual rotation of the control lever 71 in a counterclockwise direction from its neutral position through an arc of approximately 90, or the solenoid 70 being energized so as to cause the core 70a thereof to move to a retracted position. Either of the foregoing manipulations will effect movement of the latch pin portion 660 out of interlocking engagement with the peripheral notch 41d of plate 41.

Thus, it will be seen that an operating mechanism for a heavy duty switch has been provided which requires both the switch-opening and switch-closing spring means to be charged before the switch can be closed. The operating mechanism can be secured in a locked position whereby the operator plates can be rendered immovable and thus reduce the possibility of unauthorized manipulation of the mechanism. The mechanism is capable of being either manually or automatically actuated so as to cause the switch to assume an open position.

Various modifications may be made in the structure shown and described without departing from the scope of the invention.

1 claim:

1. An operating mechanism for opening and closing an electrical switch comprising a frame, a springactuated switch-closing member; a spring-actuated switch-opening member, said members being disposed in spaced side by-side relation and mounted for independent pivotal movement about a common axis; manually actuated means for independently pivoting said members in opposite directions into cocked positions wherein the springs therefor are in charged condition; adjustable control means mounted on said frame for successive releasing of the switch-closing member and the switch-opening member from said cocked positions, said switch-closing member being released from said cocked position only if said switch-opening member remains in said cocked position; and lock means mounted on said frame for manual adjustment between lock and unlock positions, said means when in said lock position retaining said members in an immovable state.

2. The operating mechanism of claim 1 wherein said manually actuated means includes an elongated shaft means having the longitudinal axis thereof coincident to said common axis, and at least one crank member mounted on said shaft means and movable therewith as a unit about said common axis, said crank member when manually moved in one direction through a predetermined mined sector engaging only one springactuated member and moving same to said cocked position and when manually moved in a second direction through a predetermined sector engaging the other spring-actuated member and moving same to said cocked position whereby both of said members are disposed in cocked positions.

3. The operating mechanism of claim 2 wherein said shaft means includes an elongated rod, a sleeve element rotatably mounted thereon, and a lug protruding from and affixed to the periphery of said sleeve element, said lug being disposed intermediate said springactuated members; said switch-closing member being provided with an adjustably mounted clutch element adapted to engage said lug when said switch-closing member is disposed in a cocked position, said sleeve and switch-closing member moving as a unit through a first predetermined sector in one direction independently of said elongated rod upon said switch-closing member being released from said cocked position; said switch-opening member being provided with a protruding cam affixed thereto and a protruding lug affixed thereto and annularly spaced and offset relative to said cam; said sleeve element lug and said member lug being disposed in abutting relation and the clutch element engaging said cam and being out of engagement with the sleeve element lug only upon the switch-closing member being in a discharged position and said switchopening member being in a cocked position whereby upon subsequent release of said switch-opening member, said sleeve and said switch-opening member move as a unit through a second predetermined sector in a second direction; the movement of said sleeve element through said first predetermined sector being adapted to close the switch, and the movement of said sleeve element through said second predetermined sector being adapted to open the switch.

4. The operating mechanism of claim 1 wherein the periphery of each spring-actuated member is provided with a first locking component, and the periphery of said lock means is provided with a second locking component, said first and second components being in interlocking relation only when said lock means is dis-.

posed in said lock position and said spring-actuated members are disposed in discharged positions.

5. The operating mechanism of claim 4 wherein said first locking component comprises a peripheral notch, and said second locking component comprises an elongated rigid bar adjustably mounted on said frame for endwise movement relative to said spring-actuated members, the endwise movement of said bar being substantially parallel to said common axis; said bar, when in one position of adjustment, having longitudinally spaced portions thereof disposed within said aligned peripheral notches and locking said spring-actuated members against pivotal movement about said common axis.

6. An operating mechanism for opening and closing an electrical switch comprising a frame; a springactuated switch-closing member pivotally mounted on said frame for movement between cocked and uncocked positions, said member being engaged by a spring disposed in a charged condition when said member assumes a cocked position; a spring-actuated switch-opening member pivotally mounted on said frame for movement between cocked and uncocked positions, said switch-opening member being engaged by a second spring disposed in a charged condition when the latter member assumes a cocked position,

said members being movable about a common axis; an elongated shaft means having an elongated rod coaxial with said common axis. and a sleeve element encompassing said rod and being rotatable independently of said rod, said sleeve element being provided with an outwardly projecting lug; a clutch element mounted on and carried by said switch-closing member said clutch element being movable independently of said switchclosing member between extended and retracted positions, said clutch element. when both of said springactuated members are in cocked positions, projecting from said switch-closing member towards said switchopening member and being disposed within the path of movement of the lug carried on said sleeve element; a cam mounted on said switch-opening member and extending towards said switch-closing member and engaging said clutch element and causing same to be moved out of the path of movement of said sleeve element lug, engagement between said clutch element and said cam occurring only when said switch-closing member has moved to an uncocked position and said switchopening member has remained in a cocked position; a lug mounted on said switch-opening member and extending towards said switch-closing member, said lug being annularly spaced and offset from said cam, said sleeve element lug and said switch-opening member lug being disposed in abutting end-to-end relation when said switch-closing member is in an uncocked position and said switch-opening member is in a cocked position; and a control device adjustably mounted on said frame for successive releasing of said switch-closing member and said switch-opening member from said cocked positions, said switch-closing member being released from said cocked position only if said switchopening member is disposed in said cocked position.

7. The operating mechanism of claim 6 wherein the control device includes an adjustable latch pin mounted on said frame and when in one position of adjustment engaging said switch-opening member and retaining same in a cocked position; said latch pin, when in a second position of adjustment, being disengaged from said switch-opening member whereby the latter automatically moves from said cocked position to an uncocked position.

8. The operating mechanism of claim 7 wherein adjustment of said latch pin is manually controlled.

9. The operating mechanism of claim 7 wherein adjustment of said latch pin is automatically effected by electrically energized means.

10. The operating mechanism of claim 6 wherein the clutch pin is biased so as to project from the switchclosing member towards the switch-opening member.

UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION Patent No. 3,876,847 Dated April 8, 1975 1nventor(s) Donald L. Dykes et al It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

Column 4, line 19, "position" seoond occurrence, should read portion line 60, "point" should read length Column 5, line 42, "acrcuate" should read arcuate Column 7, line 4, after "rod" insert axis Column 8, line 14, "deposition" should read disposition Column 12, line 6, after "determined" delete "mined" Signed and Sealed this A ttest:

RUTH C. MASON Arresting Officer C. MARSHALL DANN (unnnissinncr nj'lalmrs and Trademarks UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORRECTION Patent No. 3,876,847 Dated April 8, 1975 1nventor(s) Donald L. Dykes et al It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

Column 4, line 19, "position" seoond occurrence, should read portion line 60, "point" should read length Column 5, line 42, "acrcuate" should read arcuate Column 7, line 4, after "rod" insert axis Column 8, line 14, "deposition" should read disposition Column 12, line 6, after "determined" delete "mined" Signed and Sealed this A ttest:

RUTH C. MASON Arresting Officer C. MARSHALL DANN (unnnissinncr nj'lalmrs and Trademarks UNITED STATES PATENT OFFICE CERTIFICATE OF CORECTEQN Patent No. 3 876 847 Dated April 8 1975 lnventofls) Donald L. Dykes et al It is certified that error appears in the above-identified patent and that said Letters Patent are hereby corrected as shown below:

Column 4, line 19, "position" seoond occurrence, should read portion line 60, "point" should read length Column 5, line 42, "acrcuate" should read arcuate Column 7, line 4, after "rod" insert axis Column 8, line 14, "deposition" should read disposition Column 12, line 6, after "determined" delete "mined" Signed and Sealed this eleventh Of May 1976 [SEAL] RUTH C. MASON C. MARSHALL DANN Alluring ()jf'iver (mnmissimu'r uj'lau'ms and Trademarks 

1. An operating mechanism for opening and closing an electrical switch comprising a frame, a spring-actuated switch-closing member; a spring-actuated switch-opening member, said members being disposed in spaced side-by-side relation and mounted for independent pivotal movement about a common axis; manually actuated means for independently pivoting said members in opposite directions into cocked positions wherein the springs therefor are in charged condition; adjustable control means mounted on said frame for successive releasing of the switchclosing member and the switch-opening member from said cocked positions, said switch-closing member being released from said cocked position only if said switch-opening member remains in said cocked position; and lock means mounted on said frame for manual adjustment between lock and unlock positions, said means when in said lock position retaining said members in an immovable state.
 2. The operating mechanism of claim 1 wherein said manually actuated means includes an elongated shaft means having the longitudinal axis thereof coincident to said common axis, and at least one crank member mounted on said shaft means and movable therewith as a unit about said common axis, said crank member when manually moved in one direction through a predetermined mined sector engaging only one spring-actuated member and moving same to said cocked position and when manually moved in a second direction through a predetermined sector engaging the other spring-actuated member and moving same to said cocked position whereby both of said members are disposed in cocked positions.
 3. The operating mechanism of claim 2 wherein said shaft means includes an elongated rod, a sleeve element rotatably mounted thereon, and a lug protruding from and affixed to the periphery of said sleeve element, said lug being disposed intermediate said spring-actuated members; said switch-closing member being provided with an adjustably mounted clutch element adapted to engage said lug when said switch-closing member is disposed in a cocked position, said sleeve and switch-closing member moving as a unit through a first predetermined sector in one direction independently of said elongated rod upon said switch-closing member being released from said cocked position; said switch-opening member being provided with a protruding cam affixed thereto and a protruding lug affixed thereto and annularly spaced and offset relative to said cam; said sleeve element lug and said member lug being disposed in abutting relation and the clutch element engaging said cam and being out of engagement with the sleeve element lug only upon the switch-closing member being in a discharged position and said switch-opening member being in a cocked position whereby upon subsequent release of said switch-opening member, said sleeve and said switch-opening member move as a unit through a second predetermined sector in a second direction; the movement of said sleeve element through said first predetermined sector being adapted to close the switch, and the movement of said sleeve element through said second predetermined sector being adapted to open the switch.
 4. The operating mechanism of claim 1 wherein the periphery of each spring-actuated member is provided with a first locking component, and the periphery of said lock means is provided with a second locking component, said first and second components being in interlocking relation only when said lock means is disposed in said lock position and said spring-actuated members are disposed in discharged positions.
 5. The operating mechanism of claim 4 wherein said first locking component comprises a peripheral notch, and said second locking component comprises an elongated rigid bar adjustably mounted on said frame for endwise movement relative to said spring-actuated members, the endwise movement of said bar being substantially parallel to said common axis; said bar, when in one position of adjustment, having longitudinally spaced portions thereof disposed within said aligned peripheral notches and locking said spring-actuated members against pivotal movement about said common axis.
 6. An operating mechanism for opening and closing an electrical switch comprising a frame; a spring-actuated switch-closing member pivotally mounted on said frame for movement between cocked and uncocked positions, said member being engaged by a spring disposed in a charged condition when said member assumes a cocked position; a spring-actuated switch-opening member pivotally mounted on said frame for movement between cocked and uncocked positions, said switch-opening member being engaged by a second spring disposed in a charged condition when the latter member assumes a cocked position, said members being movable about a common axis; an elongated shaft means having an elongated rod coaxial with said common axis, and a sleeve element encompassing said rod and being rotatable independently of said rod, said sleeve element being provided with an outwardly projecting lug; a clutch element mounted on and carried by said switch-closing member, said clutch element being movable independently of said switch-closing member between extended and retracted positions, said clutch element, when both of said spring-actuated members are in cocked positions, projecting from said switch-closing member towards said switch-opening member and being disposed within the path of movement of the lug carried on said sleeve element; a cam mounted on said switch-opening member and extending towards said switch-closing member and engaging said clutch element and causing same to be moved out of the path of movement of said sleeve element lug, engagement between said clutch element and said cam occurring only when said switch-closing member has moved to an uncocked position and said switch-opening member has remained in a cocked position; a lug mounted on said switch-opening member and extending towards said switch-closing member, said lug being annularly spaced and offset from said cam, said sleeve element lug and said switch-opening member lug being disposed in abutting end-to-end relation when said switch-closing member is in an uncocked position and said switch-opening member is in a cocked position; and a control device adjustably mounted on said frame for successive releasing of said switch-closing member and said switch-opening member from said cocked positions, said switch-closing member being released from said cocked position only if said switch-opening member is disposed in said cocked position.
 7. The operating mechanism of claim 6 wherein the control device includes an adjustable latch pin mounted on said frame and when in one position of adjustment engaging said switch-opening member and retaining same in a cocked position; said latch pin, when in a second position of adjustment, being disengaged from said switch-opening member whereby the latter automatically moves from said cocked position to an uncocked position.
 8. The operating mechanism of claim 7 wherein adjustment of said latch pin is manually controlled.
 9. The operating mechanism of claim 7 wherein adjustment of said latch pin is automatically effected by electrically energized means.
 10. The operating mechanism of claim 6 wherein the clutch pin is biased so as to project from the switch-closing member towards the switch-opening member. 